Sania is star at children's event

New Delhi: Teen sensation Sania Mirza was the star attraction at a gathering of about 100 children who got to play shots with her and tennis champions like Mahesh Bhupathi, Richard Krajice and Shikha Uberoi. The event was a kids' clinic on the sidelines of the ABN AMRO Tennis challenge the four players graced.

"It was an enjoyable outing, a chance to maybe inspire these kids who look up to players like us. It was fun to be involved with all these enthusiastic youngsters," Sania Mirza told reporters.

She volleyed with the children, some of whom were even unable to put racquet to ball, as she encouraged them. On occasions she even walked across the net to the other side to point out flaws in technique.

All the children got an opportunity to play with the four professionals on different courts. A picnic atmosphere surrounded the event that lasted about two hours after a late start on a chilly winter morning.

"This was a great opportunity for the kids. It must have been fun for them to run between all the courts but we had fun in the process as well," said Bhupathi. "This is our turn to give back to the game and hopefully inspire a few of them to go all the way."

With a few fun events thrown in to enthuse the kids, they were kept on their toes. The day's proceedings finally culminated in an autograph signing session with all four players.

"I have admired Sania and it feels so good to play with her. It was so exciting and I was really looking forward to this," said nine-year-old Saysha, who has been playing for two-and-a-half years.

While Saysha went back home richer by the experience and a card that was autographed by all four tennis professionals, others got their autographs on tennis balls and mugs.

"Initially I was nervous and my father was pushing me to get on to the court. But once inside the players helped me relax and concentrate on hitting the ball back," said eight-year-old Noor.

"I want to come back tomorrow (Sunday) and watch all four of them in action in the celebrity match."